Norway vs France betting tips, predictions and bet builder: Top two clash for Group I supremacy

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Norway and France clash in the top of table clash in Group I. Les Bleus are favourites but the Norwegians have been a breath of fresh air in their first World Cup in 28 years.Norway vs France best betsMarcus Thuram to score anytime – 7/5 with Paddy PowerHaaland to score first – 5/1 with Sky BetBoth teams to score – 4/6 with Sky BetFrance -1 handicap – 6/4 with Paddy PowerBet Builder: Haaland score first, Thuram to score anytime, BTTS, France -1 handicap – 44/1 with Paddy PowerNorway vs France head to head overviewDate: Friday, 25th June 2026Kick-off: 8pmVenue: Boston Stadium, Foxborough, USAWhere to watch: ITV, ITVx, STV, STV PlayerReferee: Michael Oliver (England)Last meeting: France 4-0 Norway (May 2014)Favourite to win: France – 8/13 with Paddy PowerNorway vs France predicted lineupsNorway expected lineup (4-3-3): Nyland (GK); Holmgren Pedersen, Ajer, Ostigard, Bjorkan; Berge, Odegaard (c), Thorstvedt; Nusa, Haaland, SchjelderupFrance expected lineup (4-3-3): Maignan (GK); Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, T. Hernandez; Tchouameni, Kante, Rabiot; Dembele, Mbappe (c), BarcolaNorway vs France predictionBoth Norway and France have already secured their places in the round of 32 after winning their opening two Group I fixtures, but the stakes are still high with top of the group on the line, and, with it, earns a potentially more favourable knockout draw.France lead the way on goal difference, with six goals scored and one conceded across two matches. Norway are level on six points but trail on goal difference, so only a win would put them through in first place.For a Norway side returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1998, claiming top spot against one of, if not, *the* tournament favourites would put down a serious statement of intent ahead of the knockout rounds.Stale Solbakken’s side beat Iraq 4-1 before overcoming Senegal 3-2, with Haaland scoring four goals across those two fixtures. The pace, directness and physical presence they carry offers any opponent problems, and they arrive at Gillette Stadium full of confidence.France, managed by Didier Deschamps, have been more methodical than explosive. Three goals apiece against Senegal and Iraq showcase an attacking side with real depth. But Deschamps may rotate with one eye on the knockout stages, which means, siding with the French brings uncertainty around how much they will go all out for a win here.Norway vs France betting tipsThuram to score first World Cup goalA potential reshuffle of the France starting XI, could leave the door open for Inter’s Marcus Thuram to make his first start of the campaign.This is Thuram’s second World Cup, having made the squad in 2022. But as of yet hasn’t scored in six appearances.The 28-year-old bagged 13 league goals in Serie A as Inter won the Scudetto. Deschamps could hand him significant minutes and may be the value play to find the back of the net. Haaland in the mix againErling Haaland has taken his first World Cup like a duck to water. Four goals in two games leaves him one shy in the Golden Boot race.Norway have been the team in the ascendancy in their opening two matches, and may not enjoy as much possession or territory against this very strong France side.That being said, Haaland has always managed to maximise his chances in front of goal. The French have been solid so far this tournament but haven’t faced a forward of the calibre of Haaland yet.He could spring a surprise and open the scoring despite, as we imagine, France start on the front foot. Norway vs France latest oddsFind the latest Norway vs France betting odds here. Odds are provided by Paddy Power and are subject to change.Norway – 10/3Draw – 7/2France – 8/13More World Cup predictionsFind more predictions and betting tips from our expert punters in our match previews on the Premier League, Champions League, Championship, League One and of course the World Cup!Stay up to date with all the latest World Cup tips & predictions, World Cup Top Goalscorer Odds and World Cup Betting Guide along with all the best World Cup Betting Offers and Free Bets in our dedicated betting hubCommercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.Free Bet OffersSee all the best free bets and betting offers available in the UK over at our dedicated pageSee all free bets18+ gambleaware.org. T&Cs apply